Benin president Patrice Talon has expressed his frustration at the continued closure of the border with Niger. This situation is hampering trade between the two countries, particularly affecting Niger’s oil exports. At a press conference, Talon insisted that the Niger authorities officially announce that the border closure does not apply to oil. In his view, this clarification would enable differentiated legal treatment for oil transit.
Closing context
The border closure was introduced following the coup d’état that toppled Niger’s president Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023. This measure is part of the sanctions imposed on Niamey by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Last November, the Niger authorities inaugurated a giant pipeline to transport crude oil from the Agadem field to Benin. The project aims to increase Niger’s oil production to 110,000 barrels per day, 90,000 of which will be exported via the port of Sèmè Kpodji.
Diplomatic efforts
To resolve this impasse, Benin’s Minister of Mines, Samou Seïdou Adambi, made a two-day working visit to Niamey. The mission, undertaken at the request of the Chinese company Wapco, Benin’s and Niger’s partner in managing the pipeline, was aimed at finding a solution to enable Nigerian oil to be loaded at the port of Sèmè Kpodji. However, General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of Niger since the coup d’état, refused to meet the Beninese minister.
Patrice Talon’s reaction
In response to this situation, Patrice Talon reaffirmed that Benin is ready to grant Wapco all the necessary facilities to transport oil from Niger. Talon pointed out that, despite Benin’s efforts, Niger had not responded to any of the concerns raised. He stressed the importance of an official clarification to enable the resumption of oil transit activities, essential for the economies of both countries.
Economic impact
The prolonged closure of the border has significant economic repercussions. The first shipment of Nigerian oil to the port of Sèmè Kpodji only took place on May 19, delayed by ECOWAS sanctions. This situation complicates Niger’s ambitions to become a major player in the African oil sector. It also affects economic relations between Niger and Benin, long-standing partners.
The current situation highlights the diplomatic and economic challenges facing Benin and Niger. Patrice Talon continues to advocate a pragmatic solution to relaunch oil transit, which is crucial for both nations. This crisis illustrates the need for open and constructive dialogue between African countries to overcome political and economic obstacles.
